20 Mind-Blowing Facts You Never Knew About Sherlock

2. Benedict Cumberbatch Was The Only Actor Considered For Sherlock

Benedict Cumberbatch is now one of the biggest stars in the world, having starred in two major Hollywood franchises and looking set to lead the Best Actor Oscar race for his performance as Alan Turing in The Imitation Game. But before he wore the metaphorical deer-stalker things were very different - he was a "that guy from that thing" actor. And yet in the minds of the show-runners he was the only choice for the role of Sherlock. After seeing his small turn as a aristocratic rapist in Atonement, Moffat immediately realised he'd found Sherlock (obviously it was the acting ability, rather than the role, that made him so suitable). Cumberbatch still had to audition, but it was clear from then that the show wouldn't have to look any further to get its star.